M-Series (M1, M3, M5, M6)General M-Series Discussion - If it does not fit into a more specific M Category above, please place it in here. In addition, previously archived M-Series discussion is located in this section.
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Well I finally took the plunge, sold my Vette and bought an M3 today. A pic or two is attached.
The car is a '03 with 4000 miles, warrenty through 09, nav, SMG, premium pkg, 19", Xenons - you know the drill. Laguna Seca on black. I live in Texas and bought in Florida so awaiting shipment. Thanks to many of you out there who shared their thoughts a while back on what to get in an M3. You influenced my decision greatly.
Now tell me, what's the strategy for driving an SMG - both smoothly day to day and when you want to let her rip? I read somewhere where someone said that a SMG is not a true auto, and as such does not shift smoothly. Instead, let off on the gas and hit the paddle at the same time and it will go smooth. Any thoughts? I couldn't really tell in my test ride.
Also, want to change out my shift boot to accent the interior a bit. Anyone have a good link to installation instructions?
What would a guy do for minor performance upgrades (10 to 50 rwhp), and from who? I assume intake, exhaust, chip, those sorts of things. About the chip, does it really help and who should I buy it from? Don't want to void the warranty or trash the car.
I don't have a lot of seat time in an SMG equipped Bimmer, but will say they do take a little getting used to. It's not really one of those things that can be easily explained with a few words on a page, rather learned from getting behind the wheel and doing a little trial and error. As for timing, keep in mind the SMG allows a few different "shifting programs" that will allow you to vary how aggressively you shift. There are more mild proms for day to day driving, all the way up to a track mode that will void your warranty if used, but allow one to have a ton of fun. Not that I've experienced that, just read about the smiles slapped unto the faces that have.
As for upgrades, if you wish to maintain your warranty, the only aftermarket parts to buy would be from Dinan. Dinan performance parts are available through your local BMW dealership, and are of good quality. I would however be quick to point out that while Dinan products are first rate, they are overpriced, and their company as a whole don't exactly lead the pack regarding innovation.
If your looking for out and out some of the best aftermarket componentry out there, I would look to Active Autowerke. They are very reputable, and were recently featured in last months Bimmer magazine for their work performed to a very similar e46 M3. Supercharger, suspension upgrades, the whole nine. If you can still find the issue in bookstores, pick it up, it will certainly give you insight to their thoroughness and knowledge of all things BMW. I have delt with these people personally, and will say they are good.
Beyond those two, check out turnermotorsport.com and bavauto.com as these are two other BMW outfitters that have been around for a long time, and are very reliable.
to the BMW community my friend. As time goes on, you will totally "get" what these cars are all about.
I remember you as one of the really helpful folks I ran across on this forum. Thanks so much for your kind help. Obviously you know a thing or two about Bimmers (I remember you coached me not to say Beemers!
<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE</div><div class='quotemain'>I bet she gives great helmet.* -Dark Helmet May the Schwartz Be With You!* -Yogurt
(Spaceballs)
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<a href='http://www.cardomain.com/ride/572024/1' target='_blank'>MY RIDE PIC'S @ CARDOMAIN.COM</a>
jllphan is correct: if you want to avoid warranty hassles, only have the dealer install Dinan parts. Installing other aftermarket parts doesn't void your warranty, though. Under federal law, the dealership must prove that the aftermarket part caused the problem before they won’t cover a repair under warranty. Also they may charge for removal and re-installation of the aftermarket part if it is required during a warranty service event.
Personally, I would look into Active Autowerke. My experiences with them have been top notch, too. All of their press seems to be positive and the quality of their components that I have seen has been top notch. I currently have their LTW flywheel installed and will soon be adding their strut tower brace and generation 3 exhaust. Once I complete my intake manifold swap, I plan on sending my ECU to them to provide custom software. I'm doing all this to a vehicle that is still under a BMW certified preowned warranty.
-bj
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1999 BMW ///M3 Convertible | 1994 BMW 525i | 1983 Porsche 944 Race Car (aka ///M944)
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AMG can't build an NA engine that can compete with M engines, so they stick in a supercharger and say their cars are faster. BMW could simply do the same, but they don't out of principle.</span>
Originally posted by dvmotorsports@Jun 12 2005, 12:02 PM Lovin' it. Especially the color.
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Aw, thanks guy. I am finding out one thing about the color...it's very polarizing - either you love it or you hate it. Not many folks in between.
I went down to the dealership yesterday for some touchup paint. The guy behind the counter brings up the color by VIN, says, "Hmmm, Laguna Seca - what is that again?" Needless to say, none in stock. Had to put it on order.
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to the BMW community my friend. As time goes on, you will totally "get" what these cars are all about. 
Looks wonderful, now go pick up some hotties! 
LSB rules. 
Linear Mode
